The Mistletoe - Ancient Sacred Symbol

Mistletoe plant (image by Peggychoucair - Pixabay)

The mistletoe, although capable of growing on its own, most commonly grows on tree trunks or branches. Its roots penetrate the tree, feeding on the nutrients, hence its status as partial parasite.

The European mistletoe, ‘viscum album’, is a green shrub with small, yellow flowers and white berries that are sticky and poisonous.

Although generally seen on apple trees, it can be found on oak trees, although this is rare.

The Greeks believed the rare oak mistletoe possessed mystical powers.

With the power to heal, bestow fertility and to protect against poisons, the mistletoe was considered sacred by the Celtic Druids.

Druids Cutting the Mistletoe on the Sixth Day of the Moon ~ Henri Paul Motte

Mistletoe was gathered during the summer and winter solstices.

To the Celts, the mistletoe, which they hung over doors and in rooms, was a symbol of peace and goodwill.

Enemies who gathered under the forest mistletoe would lay down their weapons and meet in peace.

In medieval times, branches of mistletoe were hung from the ceiling as protection against evil spirits.

In Europe, placing mistletoe over the doors of the house and the stable was done to stop witches entering.

When Europeans began emigrating to America, they transferred their customs surrounding the mistletoe to the American mistletoe.

What about the tradition of kissing under the mistletoe?

Apparently, that custom owes its origins to Norse mythology.

Baldr, son of Odin and the goddess, Frigg, dreamt of his own death. Disturbingly, his mother had a similar dream.

As dreams were considered prophetic, Frigg made every object on earth vow never to harm Baldr. For some reason, she forgot to get the promise of the mistletoe. Was it because it was too unimportant and ordinary?

'Each arrow overshot his head', illustration by Elmer Boyd Smith 1902 (Wikipedia)

Unsurprisingly, Loki learnt of Frigg’s omission and fashioned a spear from the mistletoe.

At this time, the gods were amusing themselves by throwing all sorts of objects and weapons at Baldr, which bounced off him harmlessly.

Loki gave the spear to Baldr’s brother, the blind Hoder, who unintentionally killed his brother.

'The little sprig of mistletoe pierced the heart of Balder' by George Wright (Wikipedia)

Another of Odin’s sons and brother to Baldr, Hermod, was tasked with riding to Hel to bring Baldr back.

Hel agreed to release Baldr on one condition – everything in the world, living and dead, had to weep for the dead god.

Everything did… Except for one giantess whom many believed to be Loki in disguise.

So, Baldr had to remain in Hel until after Ragnarok, when he would emerge to be reconciled with his brother, Hoder, and they would rule with Thor’s sons.

It is said that the tears Frigg shed over her dead son became the berries of the mistletoe. Rather than signify death, it was agreed that the mistletoe would be a symbol of love. Any who pass under it would exchange a kiss in memory of Baldr.

Mistletoe berries (Image by Hans - Pixabay)

In Victorian times, a young lady standing under the mistletoe could not refuse to be kissed. The kiss did not have to have romantic connotations for it could also signify lasting friendship and goodwill.

However, if a girl who stands under the mistletoe is not kissed, it was said she would not marry the following year. I guess that was a good enough ‘excuse’ if she remained unmarried?

I like how these ancient symbols retain their meaning even when assimilated into newer religions and beliefs.